From Paper Forms to Digital Declarations 

Australia is modernising its border entry process by replacing the traditional paper Incoming Passenger Card with the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD), a digital arrival form for international travellers. The new system is being introduced in stages and will gradually become the standard arrival process across Australia’s international airports and seaports.

For Indian travelers visiting Australia for tourism, business, or study, the change means completing arrival information digitally instead of filling out a paper form during the flight. As Australia expands the program, travellers should understand when the declaration applies and how it fits into the arrival process.

Before finalising your itinerary, explore our International Visas, Australia Visa Services, and Destination Guides for the latest travel information and planning tips.

What Is the Australia Travel Declaration?

The Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) is the digital version of Australia’s paper Incoming Passenger Card. Eligible international travelers can submit their arrival information electronically before departure instead of completing a paper declaration during their flight.

The Australia Travel Declaration is an arrival declaration and does not replace an Australian visa. Travellers must still hold a valid passport, obtain the appropriate visa, and meet all entry requirements before boarding their flight. The digital declaration only changes how arrival information is submitted before entering Australia.

Why Australia Is Introducing a Digital Arrival Process

Australia is replacing paper arrival cards to modernise border processing and improve customs and biosecurity procedures. Collecting traveler information digitally allows border authorities to process arrival details more efficiently while improving the accuracy of declarations before travelers arrive.

The new system is also designed to support Australia’s growing international passenger numbers while maintaining existing immigration, customs, and biosecurity requirements.

Who Will Use the Australia Travel Declaration?

Australia is introducing the digital declaration in stages, so not every traveller will use it immediately. The system is currently available to eligible passengers on selected Qantas services and will gradually expand to additional airlines, airports, and international seaports.

During the transition period, many travellers will continue completing the traditional paper Incoming Passenger Card.

How the New Arrival Process Works

Current Process	New Digital Process
Complete a paper arrival card during the flight	Complete the Australia Travel Declaration online before departure
Submit the paper form on arrival	Present a digital confirmation or QR code if requested
Information is provided after landing	Information is submitted before travelling
Paper-based declaration	Digital declaration

Eligible travellers can complete the Australia Travel Declaration up to 72 hours before departure. Once submitted, they receive a digital confirmation, including a QR code that may be requested by border officials upon arrival.

Before Your Trip to Australia

• Confirm whether your airline participates in the Australia Travel Declaration program.
• Complete the declaration before departure if you’ve been invited to use it.
• Keep your passport and travel details ready when completing the form.
• Ensure you have a valid Australian visa and any required travel documents.
• Continue complying with Australia’s customs and biosecurity declaration requirements.

What Hasn’t Changed?

While Australia is introducing a digital arrival declaration, its immigration, customs, and biosecurity requirements remain unchanged. Travellers must still hold the appropriate Australian visa, carry a valid passport, declare restricted or prohibited goods, and comply with all applicable border regulations.

The Australia Travel Declaration changes the method of submitting arrival information, but it does not change the entry requirements for visiting Australia.

A Simpler Arrival Experience 

Australia’s transition to a digital arrival declaration reflects a broader move toward modernising international border procedures. As the rollout continues, eligible travellers will be able to complete their arrival declaration before departure, reducing the need for paper forms during their journey.

If you’re planning a trip to Australia, staying informed about the latest entry requirements can help you prepare with confidence. Seaman Tours offers Australia visa assistance, travel planning support, and up-to-date travel information to help make your journey easier.

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FAQs

Does Australia’s digital arrival card replace an Australian visa?

No. The Australia digital arrival card is an arrival declaration and does not replace Australia’s visa requirements. Travellers must still obtain the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia.

Do I still need to declare food and other items?

Yes. Australia’s customs and biosecurity declaration requirements remain the same. Travellers must continue declaring restricted, prohibited, or controlled items, even when using the digital declaration.

Who can use the Australia digital arrival card?

The Australia digital arrival card is currently available to eligible travellers on selected international routes. The program will gradually expand to additional airlines, airports, and international seaports.

When should I complete the Australia Travel Declaration?

Eligible travelers can complete the declaration up to 72 hours before departure to Australia, following the instructions provided by their airline. You can also find the latest information on the Australia Travel Declaration on the Australian Border Force website. 

Will paper arrival cards disappear immediately?

No. Australia will continue using paper Incoming Passenger Cards during the transition period while the digital declaration is introduced across more international entry points.

Does this affect Indian travellers?

Yes. Indian travellers may be eligible to use the Australia Travel Declaration, depending on their airline and arrival airport, as the program continues to expand.